ROLE-PLAY IN PHARMACY EDUCATION: ASSESSING STUDENT PERSPECTIVES ON ENHANCING PATIENT-PHARMACY PERSONNEL COMMUNICATION SKILLS

Abstract

Effective communication is essential for healthcare providers, including pharmacy personnel, to ensure optimal patient care. This study explores the role of role-play as an instructional and evaluative tool in pharmacy education, focusing on its impact on communication skills. A cross-sectional survey involved 74 Semester 3 pharmacy students participating in role-play scenarios as patients and pharmacy personnel. Findings reveal a positive perception of role-play, with students recognizing its benefits in enhancing communication skills (mean: 4.01), confidence levels (mean: 3.93), and conflict resolution abilities (mean: 3.86). Students express a strong preference for the interactive (mean: 4.19) and collaborative nature of role-playing exercises (mean: 4.22). They emphasize the significance of communication skills in pharmacy practice and credit role-play for improving their understanding of effective communication (mean: 4.03). Identified challenges include concerns about time management (23.0%) and perceived inadequacies in acting skills (59.5%). Proposed solutions encompass providing clearer assignment details and flexible scenarios. Notably, 82.4% of participants advocate for the continued inclusion of role-play in the curriculum. In conclusion, this study underscores role-play as a valuable teaching and assessment tool in pharmacy education, fostering active learning and communication skill development. Addressing challenges and incorporating student suggestions into communication training can effectively prepare future pharmacy professionals for real-world patient interactions.